The investigation into the activities of Vahan Kerobyan, the Minister of Economy, is currently underway with great seriousness. During a scheduled meeting with the prosecutor on April 17, his lawyer, Tigran Yegoryan, made this statement. Yegoryan mentioned that Kerobyan has been awaiting a domestic trial for two months while the preliminary investigation has been examining previously investigated documents. All necessary inquiries have been conducted, and preliminary interrogations were already completed in February. The lawyer emphasized that the investigation is being carried out fairly and transparently.

In addition to the documents, the financial transactions carried out by Kerobyan are also under investigation. Yegoryan pointed out that Kerobyan has financial obligations and certain means to fulfill them. However, there is also a significant financial background aiming to harm Kerobyan and create a complex web of social and political interests. Yegoryan believes that the physical examination and litigation of the preliminary inquiry are of great importance and transparency.

Yegoryan also revealed that Kerobyan has been accused of “improper interference” in the work of the foundation called “Synertsi”. It is alleged that Kerobyan was involved in forming a group with a monitoring role that obstructs the legal authorities and hinders the proper use of donations. This interference was achieved through articles published and by withdrawing representatives from the competition. Consequently, an organization associated with the initiative partner won the competition with a bid 392 million AMD higher than others.

On January 31, the prosecutor of the Republic of Armenia initiated proceedings against the Minister of Economy. On the same day, the National Security Service and the Police conducted searches in the office of the Ministry of Economy and several other locations, leading to the detention of seven individuals. The investigation found that Kerobyan participated in a competition related to the establishment of foreign aid programs. He unlawfully interfered in this competition by violating financial provisions in order to create tension. This resulted in the removal of a winner from the competition and the creation of another participant with false documents, causing financial damage.

During a recent interview, Vahan Kerobyan admitted making a mistake and expressed willingness to cooperate with the investigators. It is important to note that the former Minister has not accepted any bribes.